The statute governing modifications of cars was issued in 1998 and it has remained largely unchanged. As a result, its implications on modern cars are no longer valid, which has created a need for amending the statute. In connection with the commencement of the regulatory changes, more authority will be transferred from the Ministry of Transport and Communications to Trafi (Finnish Transport Safety Agency). After this, Trafi will be capable of issuing regulations concerning a number of issues including vehicles’ technical modifications. Issuing Trafi with this authority will keep the vehicle legislation up to date with the rapid technological development in the field.

In general, structural modifications of passenger cars are fairly loosely regulated in Finland. However, the current regulations include some ambiguous provisions. In Sweden, the national organization for amateur vehicle builders (SFRO) has the authority to inspect amateur-built or modified vehicles and to advice amateur builders. These activities have created jobs in Sweden, and both Swedish car enthusiasts and authorities consider the system as well organized.

Regulatory changes will create opportunities for job creation and even increase industrial activity in Finland. The amended statute should be particularly explicit in terms of the provisions pertaining to modifications of motors, chassis, tires and rims. This would make structural modifications easier, encourage amateur vehicle building and increase traffic safety. By forming the regulations carefully, it will be possible to make the inspection process smoother and to decrease the number of exemptions granted by Trafi. Before the amended statute is issued, the parties that will be most affected by the changes should be consulted.